A Quick Guide to Relocating to Canada as an International Student

The Toronto School of Management shares their top tips on what you need to do before relocating to Canada.

For years, Canada has been a top destination for international students to get their education. The country is known for its high standards in academics and quality of life, including the career opportunities that await graduates in different fields. And while the thought of moving to a different country to study might seem daunting, it gets easier when you know that the country you’re moving to is known to be one of the friendliest towards international students. A lot of Canadian institutions are also aware of such challenges for international students, thus providing them with programs and initiatives to make them feel at home.

If you’re among those students who are still uneasy about embarking on this new journey, the Toronto School of Management is here to help you out! In this blog, we’ll be providing some helpful information to help you settle into this important next chapter in your life.

Research, research, research

The best first step to take — especially when moving to Canada to study — is to research as much as possible about the country. Some essential information that you might need include:

• Culture: Canada is well-known for being a multicultural country and a champion of diversity and equity for its citizens. Also, Canadians have a reputation for being respectful and friendly towards immigrants, helping to ensure a smoother transition, especially for international students. However, as a newcomer, it is wise to have ample knowledge of Canadian customs, cultures, and such before arriving. Not only will it help you get along with the locals easily, but it could also help you find a piece of home in this foreign land.
• Policies: Another important subject to research is Canada’s local laws and policies, including those of the province and city you’ll be staying in. This is to avoid you getting into unnecessary trouble, to know your rights and restrictions as an international student, as well as to take full advantage of the policies that the government has enacted for international students, such as eligible working hours while studying.
• Cost of living: By learning about the cost of living in Canada beforehand, you can make the necessary financial adjustments before settling into your new home. There are various guides to help you out with your research, but it would be advisable to focus on the city you’re staying in to get a more precise estimation.
• Housing options: It’s critical to secure a housing option before arriving in Canada, and the good news is that there are institutions ready to provide assistance to you to find a place that suits your needs.
• Job market: The Canadian job market offers diverse opportunities for international students, which is one of the reasons why it has become such a hot destination for immigrants looking for a better future in their careers.
• Climate: Learning about Canadian seasons is also an important part of your preparation, especially if you come from a tropical country. This will help you get ready to pack the appropriate clothing per season, especially during the winter if you’re not accustomed to extremely low temperatures.

Make sure that your institution is listed as a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)

To ensure your eligibility for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP), your institution must be listed as a designated learning institution (DLI). You should note, however, that not all DLIs are able to offer PGWPs. In this case, the best choice is to take an academic pathway to an institution offering PGWP. Therefore, you will not only broaden your educational experience but also your network and career opportunities in the future.

Prepare your documentation and other requirements

It’s vital to have certain requirements met and your documents for a study permit secured for a smooth-sailing process from your home country to Canada. These may include:

• Proof of acceptance from your institute, indicating that they have accepted your application as a student
• Proof of identity, which includes travel documents such as your passport
• Proof of financial support, which includes finance-related documents like proof of bank loans, Canadian bank accounts, or proof of paid housing/tuition fees
• Medical examination or proof of good health
• Police clearance or proof of zero criminal records

If you’re looking for a Canadian institution that is ready to accommodate your academic and professional aspirations, take a look at the Toronto School of Management’s academic programs. We also have Student Services and Career Services teams that are dedicated to help you succeed in your educational journey.